NBA Free Agency 2018: 5 offseason targets for the Detroit Pistons

DETROIT, MI - MARCH 26: Stanley Johnson #7 and Blake Griffin #23 of the Detroit Pistons during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 26, 2018 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – MARCH 29: Anthony Tolliver #43 and James Ennis III #33 of the Detroit Pistons have a few laughs in warms up before an NBA game against the Washington Wizards at Little Caesars Arena on March 29, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. The Pistons defeated the Wizards 103-92. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Anthony Tolliver; James Ennis /

1. James Ennis/Anthony Tolliver

Sometimes, you just need to take care of your own guys. With so much money committed elsewhere and only the MLE to sign guys who definitely don’t want to play in Detroit, retaining Ennis and Tolliver might be the best option for the Pistons.

Here’s the thing, Detroit seems confident in their internal development. Unless they pull off a minor shocker and trade one of Jackson, Drummond, or Griffin, they are ready to ride with those three. They have reason to be optimistic. The talent is there. Their projected starting lineup heading into next season played just 32 minutes together last season. The hope is all five stay healthy at the same time. If that happens, their bench isn’t in terrible shape.

Ennis is a serviceable backup behind Stanley Johnson, who can push him at times with his offensive ability. Tolliver can play a stretch four role alongside either Griffin or Drummond, both excellent playmakers out of the post.

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Consistency counts for a lot in the NBA. The Raptors kept the same core and ended up as the top seed in the East. LeBron James has consistently been the best player in the league and he’s made eight straight Finals. Detroit is already making a major change by bringing in a new coach. Why not keep a familiar roster together in hopes that they realize their potential?

Keeping the same team doesn’t make headlines and there’s a chance Detroit is once again not quite mediocre enough to make the playoffs. But that’s what happens when you have $75 million tied up in Jackson, Griffin, and Drummond.

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